Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition — Review (2026): Is It Worth Playing?
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a JRPG from Monolith Soft, released in May 2020 on Nintendo Switch. A remake of the original 2010 Xenoblade Chronicles with updated graphics, improved interface, and the new Future Connected story. The protagonist is Shulk, who must save the world from mechanical titans.
What is the game about
The world lives on the bodies of two giant titans—Bionis and Mechonis. Shulk, a young mechanic, loses his friend in a Mechon attack and receives the Monado—a mystical sword that lets him see the future. He sets out on a journey to take revenge and save the world from the mechanical titan threat.
Gameplay
- Real-time combat: attacks execute automatically, you choose Arts and position.
- Vision system: use the Monado to see the future and change battle outcomes.
- Open world: explore vast locations on the titans' bodies.
- Future Connected: a new story after the main plot.
Should you play it in 2026
Yes. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a classic JRPG with updated graphics: epic story, deep combat, and a huge world. If you love Final Fantasy or Persona—a must.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Epic story | Lots of text |
| Deep combat | Graphics inferior to other JRPGs |
| Huge world | Slow start |
FAQ
Do I need to play previous Xenoblade games? No, Definitive Edition is the series' beginning.
How many hours? 50–60 hours main story, 70+ with Future Connected.
On other platforms? No, only Nintendo Switch.